Summer is seen in Chinese Medicine in two parts, the first part of Summer is the Element of Fire, and Late Summer is seen as the element of Earth. Fire governs the Heart and Small Intestine. The emotions of Joy and Laughter are emphasized as the Summer air and memories warm our hearts. This is a great time to connect with the things that bring you joy. The Small Intestine helps with the digestion of food, it separates the clear from the turbid. The warming nature of the season helps to move fluids in the body which brings about detoxification. One can see it is very important to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water and nutrient rich fluids including coconut water and juices. The Earth element encompasses all of the other elements and therefore when strengthened in the body, all is nourished with itself. It is the digestion and absorption of nutrients from our food, this transformation that helps keep our body healthy and in balance. The Spleen and Stomach are the organs associated with the element of Earth. As we eat the food gets metabolized and different elements (minerals, vitamins, proteins, and more) get sent to the various tissues of our body to help them with their unique function. Metabolism is a word that covers many processes that turn food into energy for our body to use. Chinese Medicine has many ways to help one regulate their different metabolic processes. The food that one eats is of strong emphasis as one takes a look at the foods that give more energy and stability (naturally) and the foods that take more time to feel energy from. Some foods take more energy to process than they can give. The cleaner our food is, the easier it is for us to absorb the nutrients from it, where as more processed food requires more work for our body to get energy from. Organic and in season locally, lend to a healthy body and when the body is more in balance so is the mind and spirit. Each season we are given time to look at our unique patterns and strengthen ourselves with the medicine that is already in the environment. Wishing everyone a wonderful Summer!